Erika Weaver: pH7 Natural Skincare

Erika Weaver, Ph.D., is the founder of pH7 Natural Skincare, a natural, toxin-free skincare line of products. As a toxicologist, she has dedicated much of her time studying the effects of certain chemicals and used these findings to develop some incredible products. We had the opportunity to learn more about her journey as the founder of an upcoming skincare line and what it’s been like establishing her brand in the beauty space. Be sure to keep up with pH7 on Instagram!

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF

I’m Erika Weaver, Ph.D., founder of pH7 Natural Skincare. I was born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. I launched pH 7 Natural Skincare in November 2017 to promote an affordable, natural, toxin-free skincare brand for all skin types. I believe everyone deserves to appreciate his or her natural skin. Starting a skincare business involves using and creating things that I have learned throughout my science experience and sharing those rejuvenating experiences enlightened my interest into the beauty industry.

Photo: Erika Weaver taken by Elena Felton of Belle Imagery Portraits

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START pH7?

You have to do difficult things in order to do comfortable things. Working as a toxicologist motivated me to launch an all-natural skincare brand. As a toxicologist, I studied and researched the effects of chemicals and how they could affect our everyday lifestyles and environment. My mission is promoting a skincare brand that provides natural, toxin-free products. With my education and passion for beauty, I hope to become an asset for the newly innovative natural, organic beauty industry.

WHAT ARE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A BUSINESS OWNER AND HOW DO YOU OVERCOME THEM?

Expressing the importance of using natural ingredients from a new skincare line. I realize skincare lovers have their favorite products or brands that they use for years and trying something new is hard. It is important for people to believe in my brand and products. pH 7 Natural Skincare is a new brand trying to promote fresh, clean and simple steps to natural skin.

WHO ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS IN THE BEAUTY SPACE?

People are my inspiration. There is a quote that I reference quite frequently; “You learn something new everyday.” Customer testimonials and receiving positive recognition from various magazines, beauty bloggers, beauty/skincare influencers and beauty/skincare brands are my inspiration.

Source: Elena Felton of Belle Imagery Portraits

Source: Elena Felton of Belle Imagery Portraits

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW? WHAT ARE SOME THINGS BEING DONE WELL AND WHAT DO YOU THINK CAN IMPROVE?

Natural skincare is a new and developing category in the beauty industry. Seeing natural brands online and social media outlets lets you know beauty is moving in a new direction.

The market should embrace natural skincare with adequate education as to what it is and what it consists of. Natural, clean refreshing skin is a lifestyle. Enhancing awareness and education about natural skincare can help improve the industry. More tutorials, pop-up shops and conferences would be very beneficial. It is best to educate people on categorizations such as clean beauty, natural, and organic.